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Borough arborist warns of bacterial leaf scorch and Beech Leaf Disease; treatment limited to early cases
Summary
Borough Arborist Bob McMullin reported that signs of bacterial leaf scorch on oak typically emerge in mid-July to late August and that the borough's treatment, started about four years ago, is not a cure and has been applied only to early infestations (under 20% infected); he also reported rapid spread of Beech Leaf Disease and is monitoring Box Tree Moth impacts.
Borough Arborist Bob McMullin briefed the Shade Tree Commission on tree health concerns facing Doylestown. McMullin said signs of bacterial leaf scorch on oak tend to start in mid-July or by late August and that the Borough has been applying a treatment for about four years with "somewhat promising" results. He cautioned the treatment is not a cure and has been used only on trees in early stages of infestation, when less than 20% of crown tissue is affected.
McMullin also reported Beeches are struggling because Beech Leaf Disease is spreading quickly and harming trees across the borough. Separately he noted the Box Tree Moth is impacting boxwoods elsewhere; while the borough has not had a major issue yet, staff will keep monitoring for the pest. Commissioners heard these reports and noted timing for treatment and monitoring during the summer months.
